Chinese President Xi Jinping has begun his first ever state visit to the Cambodia. Xi said China is resolute in forging an even closer relationship with its long-time friend.[Special coverage]
Upon his arrival, Xi said China and Cambodia are good neighbors and true friends who treat each other with all sincerity. He added that while their friendship has had to face changing times, it is now stronger than ever. And his Cambodian hosts returned his warmth.
Xi met with the Cambodian king, Norodom Sihamoni, before he witnessed the signing of more than 20 agreements that touch on aspects of joint-development, from agriculture to trade.
China and Cambodia entered a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership in 2010, having first opened diplomatic relations in 1958.
Xi said they would work to deepen political trust, coordinate more on the international stage and of course, try to forge an even stronger friendship.
Quoting the late Cambodian King Father Sihanouk, "The China-Cambodia friendship is like a flower that never whithers and will always blossom," Xi said his visit will be a success, push their relations to a new level, and benefit the people of both countries.
